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AKA University City

4.0 star property
Upscale hotel, a short walk to University of Pennsylvania
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Photo gallery for AKA University City

Exterior
Premium bedding, in-room safe, iron/ironing board
Restaurant
Exterior
Lobby

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Bar
    BarBar
  • Pet friendly
    Pet friendlyPet friendly
  • Parking available
    Parking availableParking available
  • 24/7 front desk
    24/7 front desk24/7 front desk

Explore the area

Map
2929 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104
  • Popular LocationUniversity of Pennsylvania1 min walk
  • Popular LocationDrexel University4 min walk
  • Popular LocationRittenhouse Square11 min walk
  • AirportPhiladelphia, PA (PHL-Philadelphia Intl.)13 min drive

Room options

Penthouse, 2 Bedrooms (Skyline)

  • 1022 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Penthouse, 1 Bedroom (with Library)

  • 962 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Penthouse, 2 Bedrooms (Sunset)

  • 1022 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Room, 2 Bedrooms (Skyline)

  • 1022 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Suite, 1 Bedroom (with Library)

  • 963 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Room, 2 Bedrooms (Sunset)

  • 1022 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Premium Penthouse, 1 Bedroom

  • 715 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Penthouse (Studio)

  • 520 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Suite, 1 Bedroom

  • 715 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, 1 Bedroom (with Den)

  • 835 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Penthouse, 1 Bedroom (with Den)

  • 835 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Studio

  • 520 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Suite, 1 Bedroom, Accessible

  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Penthouse, 1 Bedroom, Accessible

  • 715 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Studio, Accessible

  • 520 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Penthouse, 2 Bedrooms, Accessible

  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Similar properties

About the neighborhood

Philadelphia

Located in West Philadelphia, AKA University City is adjacent to University of Pennsylvania and within a 5-minute walk of other popular sights like Drexel University. This 133-room, 4-star hotel welcomes guests with a restaurant, an indoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • University of Pennsylvania - 1 min walk
  • Drexel University - 4 min walk
  • Rittenhouse Square - 11 min walk
  • Children's Hospital of Philadelphia - 14 min walk
  • Pennsylvania Convention Center - 4 min drive

Getting around

  • 30th St. Station - 6 min walk
  • 30th St Station - 7 min walk
  • The nearest major airports are:<br />Philadelphia Intl. Airport (PHL): 14-min drive, 9.5 mi/15.2 km<br /> Philadelphia, PA (PNE-Northeast Philadelphia): 21-min drive, 15.6 mi/25.1 km<br /> Blue Bell, PA (BBX-Wings Field): 34-min drive, 20 mi/32.2 km<br /> Trenton–Mercer Airport (TTN): 44-min drive, 34.9 mi/56.2 km<br /> <p>The preferred airport is Philadelphia Intl. Airport (PHL). </p>

Restaurants

  • ‪World Cafe Live - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Rosy's Taco Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪The Post - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Shake Shack - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Top Hat Coffee Lounge - ‬4 min walk

About this property

AKA University City

Upscale hotel, a short walk to University of Pennsylvania
Guests staying at AKA University City enjoy an indoor pool, a gym, and free WiFi in public areas. Self parking is offered for USD 35.00 per day. The front desk is staffed 24 hours a day to help with concierge services and dry cleaning/laundry. Additional amenities include a business center, a terrace, and laundry facilities.
Flat-screen TVs come with cable channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi and wired Internet. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries, and beds are dressed in premium bedding. Kitchens, washers/dryers, and refrigerators are also standard. Weekly housekeeping is available.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an indoor pool and a health club.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Languages

English, Spanish

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet

Parking and transportation

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Self parking on site (USD 35 per day)

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Fitness classes
  • Games
  • Health club
  • Indoor pool
  • Yoga classes

Family friendly

  • Free crib
  • In-room kitchen
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • In-room washer/dryer
  • Indoor pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Business services

  • Business center

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator (42 inch wide door)
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Built in 2017
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Rooftop garden
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Premium bedding
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Freezer
  • Kitchen
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Cleaning products are eco-friendly
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laundry detergent
  • LED lighting
  • Phone
  • Safe
  • Washer/dryer
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 100 per pet (varies based on length of stay)
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 25.0 per day
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Destination fee: USD 29.09 per accommodation, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Self parking fee: USD 35.00 per day
  • Pet fee: USD 100 per pet (varies based on length of stay)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 25.0 per day

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
  • Check-in: 3 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply), along with a car charging station.
Property Registration Number 864141

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
  • Contactless check-out is available.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Long-term renters welcome.

Property is also known as

AKA University City Hotel
AKA Hotel
AKA University City Hotel
AKA University City Philadelphia
AKA University City Hotel Philadelphia

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at AKA University City?

AKA University City provides free cancellation on select room rates. For more details, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at AKA University City?

As of Jul 27, 2024, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at AKA University City on Aug 12, 2024 start from $242.25, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What is there to do near AKA University City?

This hotel is situated in West Philadelphia, just steps from Walnut Street, and within a 10-minute walk of Rittenhouse Row and The Mütter Museum. You'll also find Rittenhouse Square and Citizens Bank Park within a short drive.

Is there parking available at AKA University City?

Yes, parking is offered for USD 35.00 per day. Electric car charging and bicycle parking are also available.

Does AKA University City include a casino?

No, AKA University City doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at AKA University City?

Yes, this hotel has an indoor pool.

What amenities will couples enjoy at AKA University City?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this hotel, including an indoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at AKA University City?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does AKA University City feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, AKA University City doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does AKA University City allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at AKA University City for a fee of USD 100 per pet, per stay.

Does AKA University City have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

Where is the closest airport to AKA University City?

The closest major airport to AKA University City is Philadelphia Intl. Airport (PHL), which is 9.5 mi away (14 minutes by car). Another top airport is Philadelphia, PA (PNE-Northeast Philadelphia), which is located 15.6 mi away (21-minute drive).

Can I book a room with a balcony at AKA University City?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at AKA University City.

AKA University City Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 402 out of 497 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 55 out of 497 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 17 out of 497 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 13 out of 497 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 10 out of 497 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Sokpheanal

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hotel is located in a great neighborhood and close to Drexel/UPenn with shopping and food selection around the area. Pretty walkable and clean. The bathroom can use a venting fan, and another bottle of body wash instead of bar soap. But overall, the suite is great!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Robin

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I would have given 5 stars because property was beautiful and clean with a great view. However website says free parking and it’s $32 for the entire night. Then the garage is a little shady. Other than that we loved the hotel accommodations
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The view from these rooms is unmatched! I also enjoyed working out and swimming while looking out at the city from the 28th floor. Live music and drinks in the lounge was a bonus.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mercy

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Will be returning!
It was great, the hotel was beautiful, and the staff was amazing!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shana

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Favorite place in Philly to stay
My favorite place to stay. Epic pool and bar. Great service.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Melissa

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

stephen

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Sneaky fees
Terrific stay but they added a $25 resort fee per day and didn’t disclose that when I booked. Very disappointed with this sneaky fee
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Laurie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Ann

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Francisco

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is by far one of the best hotel staffs that I have encounter in some time. They are all awesome and attentive. The best service, the best staff, and the property was immaculate. Definitely looking for other things to do in Philly just to come back to the same hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

6/10 Okay

Yohan

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daisy

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved my room. I liked the reception desk staff. I disliked the Cafe food.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lissett

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We booked a last minute reservation with this hotel after a really bad experience with a different hotel. To say they were night and day is an understatement. From the moment we walked in, to the moment we left, we felt welcome and at home. The pool is fantastic and my kids loved their stay here as well. Can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

6/10 Okay

Pei-Jung, Flushing

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

TienYi, Cambridge

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean. Love the pool.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Yunxiang

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nikolaus, Boston

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Exactly what I needed
I booked my stay at the last minute with little to no time to research first. I could not be happier with my whole experience, from check in to check out. The room was clean, spacious, and well equipped. As it turned out I decided to stay an exta night and the change was made easily for me by the amazing women at the front desk. The 28th floor was a pleasant, but welcome, surprise. I will be staying in Philly quite a bit and I look forward to visiting again.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

SCOTT

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Brand spanking new. Beautiful roof deck, pool, gym and lounge. These are really apartments with full kitchen, laundry etc. Walkable to Penn and Drexel and Amtrak
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Jeanine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The amenities are nice and the views are great. I was disappointed with there being no notice that the lounge is not open on Sundays. Also the key fob did not work on the elevator but was ok getting into the room. We had to get a new one and that one gave us trouble also.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robyn

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent! Modern, clean. We love the studio concept with kitchen. Felt like we were in a luxury apartment living in Philly. This WILL be where we stay when we come to Philly moving forward!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024